Kent State University police academy director James Willock Jr. has received one of Ohio’s highest honors in law enforcement leadership education.
Willock, director of the Kent State University Trumbull Campus Police Academy and Department of Public Safety, was presented with the 2026 Dr. Ray A. Miller CLEE Alumni Leadership Award by the Certified Law Enforcement Executive Advisory Board.
The award recognizes a graduate of the Certified Law Enforcement Executive program who demonstrates exceptional leadership, integrity, service and commitment to advancing the law enforcement profession. The honor was established in memory of Dr. Ray A. Miller, who served as director of the CLEE program from 2004 to 2014 and was known throughout Ohio law enforcement for his leadership and dedication to professional development.
According to remarks presented during the ceremony, Willock was selected for his impact on law enforcement education and community-focused policing throughout Ohio.
Willock has led the Kent State Police Academy for six years, strengthening the curriculum, expanding opportunities for cadets to earn college credit and developing partnerships with local and state agencies. Board members said his efforts have helped elevate standards for police training and professional preparation.
Prior to joining Kent State, Willock served as chief of the Mill Creek MetroParks Police Department, where he introduced community-centered initiatives designed to build public trust and strengthen relationships between law enforcement and residents.
His leadership contributions also extend statewide. Willock has served as chair of the Ohio Association of Chiefs of Police Education Committee, curriculum chair for the CLEE Advisory Board and president of the Mahoning Valley Chiefs of Police Association. He also has been a longtime instructor for the Ohio Peace Officer Training Academy’s New Chiefs Training program, teaching topics including public records, police legitimacy, implicit bias and community relations.
Willock earned a master’s degree from Youngstown State University and has completed advanced professional training through the FBI National Academy, Blue Courage Academy and Police Executive Leadership College. He has held CLEE certification since 2007.
The Certified Law Enforcement Executive program is administered through the partnership with the Ohio Association of Chiefs of Police. The executive-level leadership program provides advanced professional training for law enforcement leaders across Ohio.